Bathtime Activity: 4 Years

In the bathtub, create sequential routines using words like “first,” “then,” and “last.” For example, first we wash our body, then we wash our hair, and last we play with toys. See if she can follow these routines without too many cues from you, but be there to give her verbal directions if needed. While it’s important that you never leave the room during her bath, remember that she also really thrives on independence at this age.

Possible Intervention Strategies & Supports

• If your child is resistant to parts of the bathing routine, such as having her hair washed, show her using a water-resistant doll. Explain that the doll isn't getting any soap in her eyes and give your child a turn to wash the doll's hair. This incorporates a little bit of pretend play into bath time, while also putting your child at ease!

• Bath time is a great time to play with “tools” and further develop small muscle (or fine motor) skills. Let your child draw on the tub walls with soap crayons or soap foam. Use a turkey baster or other water squeeze-toys to then wash the drawings away.

• If your child struggles with labeling different body parts, be sure to use the names of the body parts while you are washing her or when she is washing herself.

• If bathtime routine is difficult, create a small bath time schedule with pictures. Allow your child to choose which part of the schedule she will do first, then, and last (e.g., Do you want to wash your body first or your hair?). Keep the schedule visible to help your child move along through the parts of the routine.

Tips

Although your child does thrive on independence, she will still need a little bit of your help to make sure that she really gets clean. A way to provide your child a sense of independence while ensuring appropriate hygiene needs are met is for you to start the washing and then say to your child, "Here, now it's your turn. You can get the places that Mommy/Daddy missed."

Family Handout

Click here to download an editable one-page handout of this age range's bath time activity, interventions, and tips.